Banana Cocoa Bites

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mash the bananas in a bowl until smooth. You want a puree-like consistency with no large chunks.
3. Mix in the cocoa powder until fully combined. If using, stir in the vanilla extract and nut butter at this stage.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small round bites (about 1 tablespoon of mixture per bite).
5. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the bites have firmed up and are slightly crispy on the outside but soft inside.
6. Let cool for a few minutes on a wire rack, then enjoy!

Optional Add-ins:

• A handful of chopped nuts, seeds, or dark chocolate chips for added texture.
• A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder for a flavor twist.

Enjoy these naturally sweet banana cocoa bites, perfect as a quick snack or healthy dessert!